Coherent Aerospace & Defense, Emerging Products & Technologies Business Unit is seeking a staff optical engineer to contribute to the development of advanced laser systems for defense applications.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Participates in the design, development, integration, and assembly of fiber-based, bulk optic, and opto-mechanical systems and components for lab experiments, prototypes, and customer deliverables.

Conducts experiments and tests to characterize optical component and system performance by using test equipment such as power meters, optical spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, beam profilers, arbitrary waveform generators, and RF signal generators. Writes test procedures and maintains test records. Communicates test results for component and system-level testing to other members of the team.

Performs failure analysis of optical assemblies. Troubleshoots and resolves issues with laser/optical systems and components.

Works collaboratively with a cross-disciplinary team of engineers on technical tasks. Works under general supervision, with detailed instructions on assignments.

Education & Experience

Associate’s degree and a minimum of 4 years of related experience; Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Degree must be in physics, optics, optical technology, engineering, engineering technology, or a related field. Must have a solid understanding of the physics of optics and laser systems gained through education and/or experience.

Skills

Experience conducting lab experiments and making measurements using optical lab test equipment such as power meters, optical spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, beam profilers, arbitrary waveform generators, and RF signal generators is required. Understands and applies techniques for making measurements to characterize system performance versus requirements. Ability to troubleshoot and analyze results to determine root cause of problems.

Experience assembling and splicing optical fiber and fiber-coupled components is required.

Experience assembling, aligning, and cleaning of bulk optics (e.g., mirrors, lenses, polarizers, filters, etc.) is strongly desired.

A solid understanding of the physics of optics and laser systems is required. Working knowledge of analog and digital electronics is desired.

Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills are required. Must be able to exercise judgement to determine appropriate actions and next steps.

Familiarity with Microsoft Office and other productivity tools (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams, etc.) is required.

Experience developing test applications using LabVIEW or other programming languages/tools is a plus.

Must be able to obtain/maintain a US Government security clearance if one is required to perform the job responsibilities.

Working Conditions

Primarily an engineering function with office and lab working conditions. Also includes work in a cleanroom environment which requires wearing cleanroom apparel such as a gown, shoe covers, hairnet, and gloves.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift/move test equipment up to 50 lb. Ability to perform fiber splicing, component assembly, and optic alignment tasks which requires use of hand tools.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR), applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8. U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.